Raced for a long time in Indy Pro and then spent years in rallying. Was also in GT racing, both internationally and in Spain and kart events, but is now retired, though he appears in historic and special events. He is also a regular visitor to rallycross events in Portugal. Was in A1GP, firstly as Lebanon's driver coach, then as a manager for Portugal's team. He also helps his son David's career, especially through his racing school, which he set up in 2018. Chaves first came to prominence as a driver in Formula Ford, and won the 1990 British F3000 title. Came close to racing with March in 1992 in an effort to rehabilitate his career after a disastrous 1991, but was left down by a lack of sponsorship.